R. Wayne Peters
Gearhiser, Peters, Elliott & Cannon PLLC • Chattanooga, TN
BusinessBusiness LitigationEmployment LawEstate PlanningGeneral Practice
Is this your profile?
Claim it for free to update your information and connect with clients.
Contact
Email
wpeters@gearhiserpeters.com
Phone
(423) 635-7060
Address
Chattanooga, TN, US
Professional
About
**R. Wayne Peters** *Chattanooga, TN* *Gearhiser, Peters, Elliott & Cannon PLLC* R. Wayne Peters is a highly regarded attorney with an extensive background in both accounting and law, having begun his professional journey in accounting in 1966 before transitioning into legal practice in 1968. With over five decades of experience, Wayne has established himself as a prominent figure in the legal landscape of Georgia and Tennessee, specializing in Business Litigation, Employment Law, Estate Planning, Tax Law, and General Practice. Recognized for his exceptional legal acumen, Wayne has been selected for inclusion in "Best Lawyers in America" for 24 consecutive years, earning accolades in Trusts and Estates, Litigation and Controversy – Tax, and Tax Law. He has been honored as the Chattanooga Best Lawyers Trust and Estates Lawyer of the Year in both 2013 and 2015, as well as the Tax Law Lawyer of the Year in 2012, 2014, and 2016. Additionally, he has consistently been recognized as a "Super Lawyer" from 2006 to 2016 and was named a Top 100 Tennessee Mid-South Super Lawyer in 2011. His peers have awarded him the prestigious AV® Preeminent™ rating, reflecting his commitment to excellence and high ethical standards. Wayne’s diverse practice encompasses a wide range of business and estate matters, focusing on business planning, wealth transfer strategies, estate planning, mergers and acquisitions, and related litigation. He serves a broad clientele, including entrepreneurs, startups, closely held and family-owned businesses, banks, manufacturers, and service-oriented companies, providing expert guidance on legal operations, sales, acquisitions, and employment issues. As a Certified Estate Planning Law Specialist and an Accredited Estate Planner, Wayne combines his legal expertise with a deep understanding of tax implications to offer comprehensive solutions tailored to the needs of his clients. Additionally, he is a qualified Rule 31 Listed General Civil Mediator, further enhancing his ability to facilitate resolution in complex disputes. For individuals and businesses seeking a dedicated legal partner in Chattanooga and beyond, R. Wayne Peters stands ready to deliver unparalleled counsel and support.
About Business Law
Business law attorneys advise companies on legal matters including formation, contracts, compliance, and transactions. They help businesses navigate regulatory requirements and protect their interests. Common matters include business formation, contract drafting, mergers and acquisitions, commercial disputes.
Credentials
Education
1969 Washington University School of Law Master of Laws Taxation 1968 University of Tennessee JD - Juris Doctor 1966 Universit y of Tennessee--Chattanooga BS - Bachelor of Science
Languages
English
Recognition & Involvement
Awards
2014 AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell 2014 Tax Lawyer of the Year Chattanooga, TN, Best Lawyers in America 2013 Tax Lawyer of the Year Chattanooga, TN, Best Lawyers in America 2013 AV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell 2012 Tax Lawyer of the Year Chattanooga, TN, Best Lawyers in America
Associations
2014 - Present Best Lawyers in America Best Lawyer of the Year, 2014, Chattanooga Tax Law 2000 - Present Tennessee Supreme Court Alternative Dispute Resolution Commission Approved General Civil Mediato 2000 - Present Chattanooga Tax Practitioners Member 1998 - Present Tennessee Estate Planning Specialist Certified 1990 - Present Accredited Estate Planner Certified
Other Business Attorneys in Chattanooga, TN
Updated: May 25, 2026